Owlkids

Feeling run-down? Though it's no fun being sick with a cold or the flu, those aches and runny nose are all signs of your immune system fighting off germ invaders. Give your body the rest it needs, and you'll be back to yourself in no time! GUT BUDDIES Many bacteria are vital to humans. They live in our stomachs and help us digest the food we eat. Some of them even make vitamins for us! These critters are called our gut microbiome. The number of microbes living in your gut right now! 100 TRILLION That is how long most viruses remain infectious on a dry surface. This is because viruses will quickly expire without a host cell to live in! LESS THAN 1 DAY Research shows that your gut microbiome is almost as unique as your fingerprint. All Yours! Rhinoviruses are among the most frequent causes of the common cold. Under a microscope, these viruses look like spiky balls! That's Cold ST A Y W ELL T I P S Fight back against germs! WASH UP By washing your hands for 20 seconds, you can easily kill up to 99 percent of the germs that you encounter. HANDS OFF Keeping dirty hands away from your nose, eyes, and mouth is an excellent way to avoid getting sick. FOOD SAFETY Wash all fruits and vegetables. Nasty germs can also live in raw meats like chicken and beef, so clean all surfaces and utensils that touch them. FUEL UP! Green vegetables, nuts, citrus fruits, and fermented foods like yogurt and kefir are excellent sources of vitamins and probiotics. They all lead to a healthy gut. SLEEP WELL Getting enough sleep can help keep your immune system in tip-top shape. Take that, germs! Fight the Good Fight owlkids.com 21

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